Lawyers working for soccer superstar David Beckham have served a $25 million writ on hooker Irma Nici – accusing her of causing him “great mental anguish” with allegations they slept together. Nici hit headlines around the world last week when she sensationally claimed Beckham had paid for her services on two occasions in 2007.

The sportsman immediately launched legal action against Nici and In Touch magazine, which published the story – and on Monday a representative served papers on Nici in New York, alleging the former prostitute has falsely accused Beckham of “criminal and adulterous activity”.

The nine-page dossier states Nici’s allegations have “adversely affected him in his professional life as an athlete, endorser and charity spokesperson” and imply that he risked the health of his wife – former Spice Girl Victoria – by bedding a sex worker.

Beckham is demanding a massive $25 million in damages for libel, slander and intentional infliction of emotional distress, and is pressing for the case to be heard in front of a jury.

The documents state, “The defamatory statements about Beckham are libellous and slanderous. These statements falsely accuse Beckham of criminal and adulterous activity. The defamatory statements expose him to hatred, contempt, ridicule and obloquy because they inaccurately portray Beckham as an unfaithful husband who put his wife’s health at risk by engaging in sexual acts with prostitutes.”

A representative for the star initially served the papers by jamming them underneath the windscreen wipers of Nici’s car as she tried to flee in New York on Monday afternoon – but she was later handed the writ at her lawyer’s offices.

A source tells The Sun, “She looked totally unfussed as she looked through the writ for the first time. She just smiled and didn’t look bothered. It is yet another outrageous show from her.”